Programme structure
Three businesses are selected each year. Recipients receive a complete engagement at no cost, comprising:
- Strategy audit
- Assessment of the highest-value AI opportunities given the business's current operations.
- Tool implementation
- Deployment of the selected AI tooling, integrated with existing systems.
- Process automation
- Automation of recurring operational workflows surfaced during the audit.
- Team training
- Operator training so the business owns the workflow after the engagement closes.
Selection priority
Application review prioritises:
- Underserved communities
- Minority-owned businesses
- Organisations with fewer than ten employees
Timeline
- Applications close
- April 14, 2026.
- Cohort selection
- Announced shortly after the deadline.
- Engagement period
- Scheduled in coordination with each recipient.
Background
The AI Makeover Grant reflects TEKIMAX's view that the on-ramp to applied AI for a small business should be as accessible as putting a sign in the window. Small businesses represent a substantial share of the U.S. economy and are typically left out of AI adoption cycles for budget reasons rather than fit reasons. The programme is structured to address that gap directly.
Referrals from existing TEKIMAX clients and community partners are welcome. Applications are submitted through the programme's landing page.